My ABCs of Gardening

(as I have learned them so far…I have a story or experience for every one listed below)

Always wear sunscreen on your ears and and lower back. (like I mentioned..this comes from experience)

Bees are our friends; if you move slowly, you two can work together.

Corn is beautiful to watch grow.

Develop your planting plan before digging the first hole.

Eat all your vegetables; otherwise, share with your neighbors.  

Fertilize. Fertilize. Fertilize.

Gloves protect your hands but not your manicure.

Hats protect the back of your neck from getting sunburned.

Identify weeds and their value (e.g., butterflies and moths love milkweeds and broccoli.)

Keep your garden hose coiled and organized (this is crucial too, not only for your success, but for your safety…trust me).

Listen to the birds every once in a while; they have a story to tell.

Mulching with (untreated) grass clippings is key to reducing unwanted vegetation around your plant.

Never stop trying new things; you might be surprised what flourishes in your garden.

Oregano, cilantro, and chives (oh my!) need pruning; otherwise, if they get too leggy or seed, they lose their flavor.

Peace exists in a garden.   

Quit before your back goes out.

Rain storms can be heartbreaking.

Spacing is key when it comes to pepper plants, unless you want only hot peppers.

Tilling the soil before planting is vital; it should crumble in your hands.

Utilize every corner of space.

Voluminous tomato bushes are a sign you’re doing a good job.

Worms are our friends (so long as you don’t have to touch them, see G)

Xeriscaping is usually not needed in Iowa (exception: Summer 2012)

You have all you need in your garden.

Zucchini and squash like to vine under corn for protection (at first, it’s annoying, but then after I thought about it, it’s actually  cool symbiosis in action).